Head Coach T.J. Hubbard just concluded his first week of practice with his new squad in preparation for the 2020 campaign.

As Hubbard begins his tenure leading the UTEP softball program, he will be focused primarily on building relationships with his players and coaches. He has the mindset that trust and relationships must be developed first before all else.

The Helen of Troy Softball Complex, along with all of the other resources at UTEP, caught the eye of Coach Hubbard as he made the decision to come to the Sun City. He also sees UTEP softball as a sort of sleeping giant that has everything high-level prospects desire in a program.

“What’s exciting is the facilities, resources and amenities that we have access to,” Hubbard said. “We have great weather to train in and a great location. I think it is a great opportunity for any young prospect that is looking to pursue a collegiate career. Everything is here. Everything from an educational standpoint, to the facilities and staff. I looked at it as an opportunity to really get something off the ground and running. I think we will be able to target some high-level prospects, and get this thing turned around. I am excited to be here.”

Hubbard has developed a team motto that has inspired him in the early stages of the year. That motto is to climb. The climb will need to be embraced in every facet of this year’s experience. He understands that in order to get his program to where it needs to go, they will have to fight uphill together.

“A mantra I came up with as I came into this situation was to climb,” Hubbard recalled. “We are going to have to climb every day. We are not in a position to take two or three steps and be at the top of the mountain. We are at the bottom of the mountain, and every day is going to be a climb. Every day will be a journey. Success is certainly not a destination by any means. It is something you have to do every single day.”

Coach has also already enjoyed his short time in the 915. The people, the culture and the food have all made impressions on the Oklahoma native.

“At this point I have seen that El Paso has great people and a great community,” Hubbard said. “The community is what makes UTEP special and UTEP makes the community special. It is a great connection and I love it so far.”

UTEP begins its season on Feb. 7 in Las Cruces, N.M., and coach Hubbard is fully embracing the time before opening day to build relationships with his team and enjoy his new home.